How to explain being fired in a job interview

It’s a nightmare scenario: you’ve been fired from your last job and a hiring manager is asking why you were let go. And although you may have not been fully responsible for your termination, sounding bitter or angry about it may keep you from getting hired. Here are five tips to help you better explain your dismissal to potential Bay Area employers.

Be frank
This will require some introspection. Focus on the main reason why you were let go and try pushing all the noise leading up to the event to the side. Whether the work environment had become toxic, you had a terrible boss, or if the quality of your projects dropped, it’s important to own up to it — especially since most Bay Area employers conduct very thorough background checks. Your story should match any documentation or reference stories people in your industry may be saying about you.

Focus on what you learned
This will be the most important part of your answer. While many people get fired, not all of them make self-improvements. It’s crucial to show potential employers how the event helped you grow in a positive way. Showing you are aware of your limitations will make you look more appealing.

Be concise
When explaining your reason for being let go, most managers will only be looking for a brief description. Be precise and avoid mentioning your boss or company politics. Here are two examples:

It was my first time in sales and I wasn’t meeting my goals. I now know I’m not a sales person.

The startup had me wearing many hats and the quality of my work was affected. I should have spoken up. Now, I know the amount of work I can handle.

Practice your answer
Saying your answer out loud will help you get comfortable with it. It will also help with sounding calm and aid in pushing aside the negative feelings associated with the experience of being let go.

Remember, being able to sound at peace with your dismissal will make you look like you are ready to move to the next step in your career.

Belo Cipriani is an award-winning author, former staffing professional, a spokesperson for Guide Dogs for the Blind and the Writer-in-Residence at Holy Names University. Learn more at BeloCipriani.com.